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CIE seeks 9% rise in all fares

CIE is seeking an increase of 9% in fares for bus, Dart and rail users. The state-owned transport company has requested a 6% increase in ticket costs and a separate 3% increase which it describes as a “fuel levy”.

The request will come as another blow to Irish consumers. They were hit with a 34% increase in gas prices in September and face a 20% increase in electricity prices in January. Combined, the higher charges will cost consumers more than €450 extra a year. Higher bus and train fares would increase that figure to nearly €500.

CIE claims the increases are required to cover current and previous increases in fuel prices as well as additional wage costs negotiated under the social partnership agreement.

CIE’s diesel and electricity bill is understood to be €19m this year, up €10m since 2003. The state subvention to the company was €283m last year. If